Many employers do not realize that it is against California law to discriminate against an injured worker.
Labor Code Section 132a states in relevant part:
“Any employer who discharges, or threatens to discharge, or in any manner discriminates against any employee because he or she has filed or made known his or her intention to file a claim for compensation…”
The penalties to an employer can be severe if the employer has been found to be in violation of this section including being found guilty of a misdemeanor, held to pay a penalty of up to $10,000 dollars, reinstatement of the employee and reimbursement for lost wages and work benefits caused by the acts of the employer.
In addition to the above, the employer may also be in violation of other State and Federal Laws by violation of the Americans with Disability Act (ADA) and Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
The fact is, there are MANY laws that protect workers from being fired or discriminated against due to a work injury, or other disabilities, work related or not.
Don’t be afraid! Find out your rights confidentially by contacting us at 714-547-5025.
The consultation is always free.